The donation follows recent clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) in Panyume Payam in recent days.
In a public statement obtained by Sudans Post, the county authorities said the supply was part of the State Government’s continued efforts to support people and families affected in the county.
Charles Data Bullen, the Commissioner of Morobo County, appreciated the State Government’s intervention and noted that the food supplies received include cooking oil, maize flour, beans, and rice.
Data claimed that the SPLA-IO’s presence in Panyume over the past eight years posed serious challenges in the county, including the misuse of county resources, adding that the opposition forces have been involved in deforestation, looting, unlawful arrests, and restricting movement for people and aid workers.
“I would like to register my sincere appreciation to the State Government for this great support and standing with the people of Morobo. Now that the State has intervened, we believe the national government will also come in,” said Data, who escaped a road ambush last Sunday.
Speaking at the County Headquarters during the handover, Rose Lisok, Chairperson of the State Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, expressed sympathy for the affected families and confirmed that the food supplies would be distributed accordingly.
The chairperson also called upon the sons and daughters of Morobo, well-wishers, and humanitarian partners to offer further assistance.
“We are saddened by the incident that happened, and that’s why we appeal to all partners to come and help in such a time,” emphasised Hon. Lisok.
Naphtali Yakani, the Paramount Chief of Morobo County, said that we have received these food items and will distribute them to the displaced. We are thankful to the State Government,” said Yakani.
In a related development, Augustino Jadalla, the Governor of Central Equatoria State, assured displaced residents of Morobo County of the government’s commitment to the restoration of peace and stability in Morobo County.
Addressing thousands of people in Morobo town on Wednesday, Mr. Jadalla stressed the importance of fostering civil-military relations to build trust and cooperation between the local population and the army.
“I have fully understood the situation you are all going through. I travelled here today to assure you of the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in Morobo. I want you, as citizens, to cooperate with the military. This is important for peace,” said Jadalla.
Jadalla’s visit to Panyume Payam aimed to assess the urgent humanitarian needs, deliver food supplies, provide medical assistance, and encourage the return of IDPs to their homes.
“It is time we say no to war now. It is time you reject being mobilised to join rebellions. It is time you focus on how your children should get educated and develop them as the future leaders of your country,” the Governor stated.
“As the government, we have decided to deliver food aid to you. We are also going to acquire tents for you. We are making all efforts to ensure that you return to your homes,” added Mr Jadalla.
On the economic front, Mr Jadalla encouraged the people of Morobo County to concentrate on and engage in agriculture, noting that the presence of the SSPDF in Panyume is a positive sign of improving security.
The Governor’s delegation comprised the State Advisor for Legal Affairs, Hassan Naphtali Gale, Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency, Leon Abe Brown, and Minister of Peace Building Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado.
He was also joined by the state Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, Zendia Eluzai, and the State Chairperson for the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, Rose Lisok.
Also present were members of parliament and other top government officials, all assuring the government’s unshakable resolve to restore peace. The delegation was also joined by the Commissioner of Yei River County, Hon. Emmanuel Taban, and Hon. Robert John Lasu, the Commissioner of Lainya County.
Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado, Minister of Peace Building, warned the youth against being exploited to fuel conflict. He called on all sectors—government, security organs, religious leaders, youth, women, and communities—to unite in the pursuit of sustainable peace.
“Let us not be used for war. Ask yourselves—what is your personal interest and that of your community if you go to war?” Aligo questioned.
Remijo Lasu, a member of parliament representing Morobo in the national parliament, said the visit to Morobo was to show “solidarity” with the people on the ground.
Col. William Deng, SSPDF Area Commander in Morobo County, described the current security situation in Morobo as “calm.” He reassured the public of the SSPDF’s dedication to maintaining peace.
Ajonye Prossy, speaking as a voice of the women in Morobo, highlighted the enduring struggles of women who have suffered displacement over the years due to conflict.
She called for more support in the health and education sectors, including the provision of sanitary kits and scholastic materials to facilitate children’s return to school.
Bidal George, a youth representative, identified insecurity, unemployment, and a lack of capacity-building opportunities as major challenges facing the youth. He called for the establishment of vocational training centres to equip young people with practical skills for development.
